Reviews

Holding On by Sophia N. Lee

intensej's review

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  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0


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taries's review

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emotional hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

carolineinthelibrary's review

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5.0

I absolutely adored this story about the special bond between a girl and her grandmother. Lola teaches her granddaughter all of her favorite songs, and encourages her to hold on to those songs, as well as loved ones and memories. When Lola's memories start to slip, her granddaughter uses the songs to keep Lola present and help her remember. Grandparent bonds hit me right in the feels, so this was a winner for me!

lololauren23's review

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3.0

Beautiful story and illustrations, but I couldn't get over grandma's butthole mouth.

melodyseestrees's review

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emotional reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

This is a story about aging. I do not think the specific condition is named but it is heavily shown that Lola is losing her memory and sense of time, implying dementia. The granddaughter tries very hard to help Lola keep the joy and music she once shared. 
This is an important read to share with children who are going through or will go through the slow loss of their elders as it can open up the conversation for what is happening, and what can be expected within an age-appropriate level. 
This is a sad and joyous story and it will bring up complicated feelings within young readers. But it can also help set a framework of understanding and empathy towards elders.

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rheawhea's review

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emotional hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.5

Sophia N. Lee might just be my new favorite (Filipina) children's author! This is emotional like Lolo's Sari-Sari store but I still prefer that one. The end of Holding On just seemed too abrupt and incongruent for my taste.

sarahvlovestoread's review

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emotional sad medium-paced

4.5

waterviolite's review

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emotional hopeful reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75


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yourteenlibrarian's review

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emotional reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

jkribbit's review

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective fast-paced

5.0

This wonderful picture book speaks to my very heart. The bond between grandmothers and granddaughters is very special. I know from experience. The way this story tells of the power of music and tradition to keep memories alive and connections strong is beautiful. So good!